One of the scariest things about a huge storm is electrical hazards. Heavy storms usually destroy power lines and cables, thus exposing people to electrical hazards. So, if you live in an area that is prone to large storms, then you must be wondering what to do to stay safe from electrical hazards? Fortunately, today we have the answers that you are looking for. Below are tips on how to stay safe from electrical hazards during storm.
Prepare for the storm in advance
One of the best ways to stay safe from electrical hazards during a storm is by preparing in advance. When you prepare in advance, then you will be better equipped to deal with any electrical hazard that may occur during and after the storm. Once the alarm of a heavy storm has been issued by the local metrological department, you need to start preparing right away. Always Prepare for the worse but hope for the best. Some of the preparation you need to make include:
Turning off all electrical appliances, especially in areas such as the basement that are prone to flooding
Having a portable backup generator to supply power in case of an outage.
Having phone contact of a reliable electrician on standby for help in case of any electrical emergency
Have adequate supplies to avoid getting out of your home during and after the storm
Understand your home wiring so that you know where to switch off in case of an electrical hazard.
Preparing for the storm in advance will enable you to deal with any situation that may arise quickly and efficiently.
Turn off utilities
When the storm starts, you should always be ready to turn off utilities, especially if instructed to do so by the authorities. You need to know where the main switch is located so that you can quickly switch off power in case your house floods. Also, turn off any electrical appliances in your house and keep them in a safe place where they will stay dry. If your home has been affected by flooding, keep your power off until they are inspected by a licensed and experienced electrician. The electrician should inspect your entire home to determine which electrical equipment can be used and which one should be replaced.
Don’t use any electrical appliance that has been wet
If your home was flooded and some equipment has gotten wet, don’t use them until they have been checked by a qualified service repair dealer or a licensed electrician. If you use a wet appliance, you not only risk damaging it completely but you also risk being electrocuted.
Stay away from downed power lines
If you see or encounter a downed power line during or after a heavy storm don’t come close to it. Instead, be at least 10 feet away from anything that touches it. The human body is a good conductor of heat. So, when you come close to a downed power line, then you risk being electrocuted. Electric current always wants to move from a high voltage zone to a low voltage zone. So, if you move close to the downed power line, then it can sue your body as a path to go to a low voltage zone and the result could be fatal. So, if there are downed power lines near your property, stay away from them and inform the authority about it immediately.
Avoid flooded areas
Another important thing to do to avoid electrical hazards during a storm is to stay away from flooded areas. This is because flooded areas may be electrified. Remember that even nonconductive materials such as cloth and wood that are wet can conduct electricity. So, try as much as possible to avoid flooded areas.
Short-circuit may cause an electrical fire
During a heavy rain, experts say that it’s not safe to touch any electric equipment or appliance connected with electricity grid because water may get into the electric circuits causing short circuit and maybe even an electrical fire which can destroy your house or building completely. In order to stay safe from such situation make sure all electronic devices are disconnected before the storm hits. If possible use safe and safe-to-touch nonconductive material to cover them. Even after that if you have any kind of doubt in your mind, contact with a good electrician.
What about after the storm?
The storm is finally over and you can go home. But first, make sure to not return until instructed by local authorities! Once they give the green light do so during daylight hours if possible because electricity might still be an issue in your area too – even with power restored there could be dangerous wires hanging around waiting for something or someone who isn’t careful enough.
If you are safe at home when the storm hits, make sure to follow these tips in order to stay safe from electrical hazards during a storm. Safe preparation will ensure that you stay away from any unforeseen dangers and prevent accidents.
You can also consult reliable electrical service companies from your local area for further details about safe preparations before the storm arrives.